05 Dec 2017 | 10:32 PM UTC
Greece: Multiple protests in Athens December 5
Anti-labor reform protests turn violent in Athens on December 5, simultaneous migration demonstration occurs without incident; more demonstrations possible in coming days
Event
On Tuesday, December 5, clashes broke out in Athens between protesters and police outside the Ministry of Labor and offices of the prime minister. Several hundred labor union members gathered at around 12:00 (local time) at Klathymonos Square, before marching to the Ministry of Labor to protest against a draft bill in parliament that would limit the ability of unions to initiate strikes. Demonstrators reportedly broke through a police cordon and entered the Ministry of Labor before being dispersed with tear gas by police. The demonstrators then marched on the office of the prime minister at the Maximos Mansion, where the crowd was again dispersed with tear gas. Additional protests cannot be ruled out in the coming days.
Additionally, an unrelated protest took place outside the Ministry of Migration on Tuesday. Several dozen protesters gathered outside the ministry to demand the government address overcrowding in migrant camps on the islands of Lesbos, Chios, and Samos. The demonstration reportedly concluded without incident.
Context
Greek labor unions are protesting a draft bill that would require unions to have at least 50 percent of members present to declare a strike. Greek lawmakers withdrew the draft on Tuesday afternoon.
Tuesday’s protest outside the Ministry of Migration took place as the country continues to grapple with the refugee crisis that has gripped Europe in recent years. Thousands of migrants from the Middle East and Africa have entered Greece with hopes of applying for asylum and reaching the European Union. Many migrants are staying in camps organized by the EU, Greek government, and humanitarian aid organizations on various Greek islands. Human rights groups have expressed concerns that many of people are living in inhumane, and possible dangerous conditions in the camps.
Advice
Individuals in the Athens are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to avoid protests due to the potential for violence, and to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
